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5 Common Causes of Bad Breath (and what to do about it)

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5 Common Causes of Bad Breath (and what to do about it)

Posted on: June 12th, 2024 by admin

Struggling with bad breath? If so, you are not alone. Every local dentist knows this is a common issue people face. Bad breath (or “halitosis”) is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. Fortunately, there are several potential causes of bad breath and specific solutions for each one. In this article, we explore the five most common causes of bad breath and how to eliminate them for good!

  1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of bad breath. This includes not brushing or flossing regularly, failing to scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper, and not using mouthwash regularly. To eliminate bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene, be sure to brush and floss twice daily, scrape your tongue once a day, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash at least once a day.

  2. Dry Mouth: Saliva is essential for keeping bacteria levels in your mouth low; when saliva production decreases due to dehydration or certain medications, this can cause an increase in bad breath. To overcome dry mouth, make sure you are properly hydrated throughout the day and consider using an artificial saliva product if needed.
  3. Food: Some foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath due to their strong scents. To eliminate bad breath caused by food, brush your teeth or chew sugar-free gum after eating these smelly foods. Additionally, avoid smoking cigarettes and consuming alcohol as these two habits can contribute to bad breath.
  4. Sinus Issues: Nasal and sinus issues can cause a buildup of mucus in the back of your throat, which can lead to bad breath. To eliminate bad breath caused by sinus issues, use saline nasal sprays or steam treatments to flush out the excess mucus and keep your nose and sinuses clear.
  5. Medical Conditions: Bad breath can also be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney and liver diseases. If you have persistent bad breath that won’t go away despite brushing and flossing regularly, visit your doctor to rule out any serious health issues.

 

By following these tips, you can eliminate bad breath for good and enjoy fresh-smelling breath all day long! Don’t believe us? See what our patients have said about us!

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How to Take Care of Your Dental Braces: Tips and Advice

Posted on: June 5th, 2024 by admin

Dental braces are a treatment option that helps to correct misaligned teeth, improve oral health, and enhance your smile. However, it’s crucial to take proper care of your braces to avoid complications that could potentially disrupt the treatment process. If you’re considering braces or already have them, you are in the right place. In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of dental braces, discussing how to take care of them, what to expect during the treatment, and much more, all with advice from your favorite dentist near Manahawkin.

What are Dental Braces?

Dental braces are devices used to correct misalignments, irregular bites, and other dental problems. Braces work by applying pressure on the teeth to move them into their correct position gradually. The pressure is maintained by wires, brackets, and rubber bands connected to the teeth. Braces come in a variety of types, such as metal, ceramic, and lingual braces (which are placed on the inside of the teeth and are less visible).

Why is it necessary to take care of dental braces?

To ensure that dental braces work effectively, it’s crucial to take proper care of them. A lack of adequate care may increase the risk of complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, or even loosening of the brackets. You may also experience discomfort, pain, or soreness in the mouth. Therefore, proper care is necessary to keep your braces secure, reduce discomfort, and achieve the best results.

How to take care of dental braces

  • Brushing: Brushing your teeth is an essential part of dental care, but when you have braces, it becomes even more crucial. Brushing helps to remove the plaque and food particles that can easily get trapped in the brackets and wires of the braces. You should brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush your braces, as well as your gums and tongue.
  • Flossing: Flossing is another critical element of dental care. Flossing helps to remove food debris and plaque that brushing alone cannot reach. When you have braces, flossing can be challenging, but there are tools that can help with that, such as floss threaders and interdental brushes.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Hard and crunchy foods such as popcorn, nuts, and hard candy can damage your braces, bend the wires or even dislodge the brackets. So, it’s best to avoid them altogether.

Dental braces are an excellent treatment option that helps to correct dental problems and enhance one’s smile. However, taking proper care of them is crucial to ensure the treatment’s success and avoid any complications. By following the tips we’ve outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired results. Remember to brush and floss regularly, avoid hard foods, and attend your scheduled appointments with your local dentist. Good luck on your journey to a beautiful and healthy smile!

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How to deal with a chipped tooth

Posted on: May 29th, 2024 by admin

It’s an unfortunate side effect of life, but chipping a tooth is something we all have to deal with at times. Whether you or your child has experienced a minor mishap resulting in a broken or chipped tooth, don’t panic! This article will walk you through the steps of what to do when this unfortunate situation occurs. We’ll discuss what actions are recommended and how to ensure that your smile gets back to its original state as soon as possible.

First, it’s important to assess the damage. Are there any large pieces missing or is the chip small and contained? Is the fracture a simple surface fracture or one that has penetrated deeper into the tooth? While you can’t tell for certain just how deep it goes, it’s important to note how long it is and how much has been chipped away.

Next, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. This will help prevent infection as well as reduce any swelling or pain. Take pain relief medication if necessary and avoid chewing with that tooth until you can get it fixed.

The best thing to do next is to contact a dentist as soon as possible. They are trained to handle situations like this and will be able to provide you with the best course of action. The dentist may be able to repair the tooth in one appointment, or they may need to place a temporary crown over it while they perform further repairs.

If you’re unable to get to your dentist near Forked River right away, there are a few things you can do to protect the tooth in the meantime. Avoid eating hard foods or anything that could cause further damage. You may also be able to apply a DIY dental repair kit with resin and other materials that can help build up the surface of your chipped tooth until you can get it fixed professionally.

By following these steps, you can be sure that your smile is taken care of and will soon look as good as new! Be sure to contact a trusted and knowledgeable dentist with any questions or concerns you may have. They will be able to help you restore your tooth to its original condition in no time. Good luck!

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Brushing Your Teeth: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Posted on: May 22nd, 2024 by admin

Brushing Your Teeth: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Most of us have grown up hearing about the importance of brushing our teeth. However, with so much information out there about the “right” way to brush, it can be hard to know if we’re doing it correctly. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of brushing your teeth, including good technique, facts and statistics about why it’s important and what can happen if you don’t brush. Whether you’re a senior citizen or just looking to maintain a healthy smile, this article is for you.

First things first: how often should you be brushing your teeth? According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Brushing in the morning can help freshen your breath and prep your teeth for the day ahead, while brushing at night removes the buildup of plaque and bacteria that accumulates during the day.

But it’s not just about frequency – technique matters too. When brushing, it’s important to use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. You don’t want to apply too much pressure – a gentle circular motion is all you need. Make sure you’re cleaning every surface of your teeth, including the gum line and the backs of your molars. And don’t forget to brush your tongue – it can harbor bacteria and cause bad breath.

So why is all of this necessary? Well, the statistics speak for themselves. Gum disease affects nearly half of all American adults, with an even higher prevalence among seniors. Poor oral hygiene has been linked to a host of other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. And beyond health concerns, skipping out on brushing can have social consequences as well – bad breath and yellow teeth can impact your confidence and self-esteem.

If all of this feels overwhelming, rest assured that there are plenty of resources available to help you. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide individualized advice and guidance, as well as information about products like floss and mouthwash that can supplement your brushing. There are also many educational videos and online resources that can provide more detailed information about good brushing technique.

Finally, it’s important to acknowledge that there are some circumstances where brushing alone may not be enough. In cases where you have significant tartar buildup, gingivitis, or deeper dental issues, more intensive treatment may be necessary. This is why regular dental check-ups are so important – catching these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the road.

In the end, brushing your teeth may seem like a small thing – but it can have a major impact on your health and well-being. By following best practices for brushing technique and making regular dental check-ups a priority, you can help ensure that your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come. Remember – a little effort now means a lifetime of benefits.

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Getting Dental Braces: A Complete Guide

Posted on: May 8th, 2024 by admin

Getting dental braces is a major decision, especially if you are an adult. While most teenagers get braces to align their teeth during their growing years, many adults are often skeptical about it. Dental braces are no longer an unpopular trend, in fact, they are a popular option that many people opt for to improve the overall look and feel of their teeth. In this article, we’ll discuss in detail the benefits of getting dental braces, how they work and what you can expect if you opt for dental braces.

  1. What are dental braces?

Dental braces are metallic or ceramic brackets that are bonded to the teeth with an adhesive, and connected to a wire that applies pressure to move the teeth into their correct position. Braces help improve dental hygiene by allowing easier access to clean teeth, reduce the risk of gum disease, prevent damages to teeth from malocclusion, and help solve speech problems, such as speaking with a lisp.

  1. Benefits of dental braces

Dental braces offer numerous benefits such as improving overall oral hygiene, fixing crooked teeth, and gaining confidence with a beautiful smile. Crooked teeth can also cause discomfort and create issues with chewing and biting. Braces also help in preventing decay and enamel erosion caused by misaligned teeth. Once the braces are removed, people often notice a significant improvement in their overall appearance and self-esteem.

  1. Type of Dental Braces

The three main types of dental braces are metal braces, ceramic braces, and lingual braces. Metal braces are made of stainless steel or titanium, making them more robust; they are also the most visible. Ceramic braces, on the other hand, are made from composite materials, making them more aesthetically pleasing compared to metal braces. Lingual braces are metal braces that are attached to the back of the teeth. They are virtually invisible but are more challenging to clean.

  1. Procedure for getting dental braces

The first step to getting dental braces is to find an orthodontist. The orthodontist will conduct a comprehensive dental exam, which includes x-rays and study models to determine the best type of braces suitable for you. During the installation, the orthodontist bonds brackets onto the front surface of each tooth, connects them with a wire, and uses elastics to help move your teeth into the desired position. Depending on the level of treatment required, the procedure can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months.

  1. Caring for dental braces

After getting braces, oral hygiene is critical. Brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup and maintain healthy teeth and gums. Foods such as popcorn, gum, and hard candies should be avoided, as they can cause damage to braces. Orthodontists recommend that patients avoid eating sugary foods and excessive acidic beverages, as they can cause enamel erosion and cavities.

Getting dental braces is an excellent solution for those looking to improve their overall dental health and appearance. With various types of braces available, one should explore all the options, communicate any concerns with their dentist in Ocean County and make an informed decision. The process of getting braces might be uncomfortable, but the results will leave you with a winning smile and confidence that will take you places. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist today and enjoy all the benefits that dental braces have to offer.

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25 Amazing Facts About Teeth!

Posted on: April 24th, 2024 by admin No Comments

Teeth! We see them every day. We work with them every day. That’s no surprise, we’re dentists, after all!

Even so, they never cease to amaze us. We bet you’ll be amazed, too, when you read some of these incredible facts about your pearly whites:

  1. Surveys indicate that 50% of people say that someone’s smile is the first thing they notice.
  2. The hardest part of your body? Your tooth enamel.
  3. Some 80% of dental injuries sustained by children are to their front teeth.
  4. Consumers in the U.S. buy 14 million gallons of toothpaste every year.
  5. Over the course of your life, you will spend about 38 days brushing your teeth.
  6. Snails have about 25 teeth – and they are located on their tongue.
  7. Adult humans have 32 teeth. Babies, however, only have 20 teeth.
  8. A tooth that gets knocked out will start to die within 15 minutes.
  9. You can extend the life of a knocked out tooth by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth. Remember that if you have to take an emergency trip to your Barnegat, NJ dentist!
  10. The amount of saliva you produce in a lifetime is enough to fill two swimming pools!
  11. Mosquitoes have teeth! Usually about 47 is all.
  12. So-called “milk teeth” begin to form in the womb, but don’t actually show until a child is six months to a year old.
  13. Some 25% of children won’t have seen a dentist before they enter kindergarten. That number is too low!
  14. Modern toothpaste has only been around for about 100 years.
  15. Think your fingerprints are unique? So are your tongue prints! No two are alike.
  16. In the past, people used charcoal ashes, chalk, lemon juice, and other concoctions to brush their teeth.
  17. Think kids eat more candy than adults? Think again. Adults consume about 65% of all the candy produced in the U.S.
  18. The most common childhood disease is none other than tooth decay.
  19. Brushing daily can reduce your chance of tooth decay by 25%.
  20. When you don’t floss, you miss cleaning up to 35% of your tooth’s surface area.
  21. Humans have two sets of teeth during their lifestyle. By contrast, sharks have about 40.
  22. Every year, students lose 51 million hours of school due to dental-related illness.
  23. What you think of as your teeth is only part of the story; one third of your teeth are located underneath your gums.
  24. You could add up all the people on Earth and it still wouldn’t add up to the amount of bacteria in your mouth RIGHT NOW!
  25. At the time of his inauguration, George Washington only had one real tooth!

Pretty amazing stuff, huh? As a dentist in Ocean County, NJ, it’s easy to see why we are so fascinated with your pearly whites. They are a lot more interesting than people realize!

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The Ultimate Guide to Tooth Enamel: What It Is, Its Importance, and How to Maintain It

Posted on: April 10th, 2024 by admin

Tooth enamel. You have probably heard your local dentist mention it a lot. Tooth enamel is the hard, outermost layer of your teeth that protects them from decay and damage. Despite being the strongest substance in your body, enamel can become eroded due to factors like poor dental hygiene, acidic foods, and excessive alcohol, tobacco, or drug use. When enamel wears down, it can lead to sensitivity, toothache, and infection. But with proper care and attention, you can strengthen your tooth enamel and maintain good oral health.

What is Tooth Enamel?

Tooth enamel is a translucent, calcified substance that covers the top (crown) and sides (root) of your teeth. Made up of 96% minerals such as calcium and phosphate, enamel is the hardest and most mineralized tissue in your body. Enamel is nonliving and cannot regenerate once it’s lost, which is why it’s essential to preserve it as much as possible.

The Role of Tooth Enamel in Your Health

The main roles of tooth enamel are to protect your teeth from damage, provide a smooth surface for chewing and biting, and give your teeth their white appearance. Enamel acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria, acid, and sugar that can cause cavities and decay. Healthy tooth enamel also helps maintain proper dental alignment and improves speech. Without enamel, your teeth become more vulnerable to decay and cavity formation.

Things That Are Good for Your Tooth Enamel

To maintain strong and healthy tooth enamel, you need to consume foods and drinks that are rich in minerals and nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Some examples include dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and fish. Drinking plenty of water can also help wash away harmful bacteria and acid from your mouth. Furthermore, incorporating fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Things That Are Bad for Your Tooth Enamel

Certain habits and substances can weaken and erode your tooth enamel over time. Avoid consuming too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks, such as soda, sweets, citrus fruits, and sports drinks. Limit your alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, as these can all contribute to tooth decay and wear. Additionally, don’t brush your teeth too hard or with insufficient fluoride toothpaste, as this can also wear down your enamel.

How to Maintain Healthy Tooth Enamel

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for maintaining healthy tooth enamel and preventing decay and infection. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash as needed. Be aware of any tooth sensitivity or discomfort, as this may be a sign of enamel erosion. Your dentist may recommend treatments like sealants, fluoride varnish, or fillings to protect and restore your enamel. By maintaining good oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits, you can keep your tooth enamel strong and healthy.

Tooth enamel plays a vital role in your oral health and overall wellbeing. It’s essential to take steps to preserve and strengthen your enamel, including consuming a nutritious diet, avoiding harmful substances, and practicing good oral hygiene. Don’t ignore any signs of enamel erosion or decay, as early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and improve your dental health. By taking care of your tooth enamel, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.

For more tips, be sure to visit your local dentist in Ocean County, NJ on a regular basis!

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What you NEED to know about flossing!

Posted on: April 3rd, 2024 by admin

Look, we understand. A lot of people just don’t like to floss. In fact, up to half of all Americans don’t floss as often as they should.

But since flossing helps protect you from oral infections, bad breath, gum disease and more, this is really not a good thing!

Take a look at these 10 things you may not know about flossing and perhaps you’ll change your mind about this all-important hygiene habit.

  1. Some dentists in Southern Ocean County recommend flossing before you brush, not after, to help the fluoride from your toothpaste get between your teeth. However, this advice is not universal. There remains debate over whether or not this actually has any impact. Most dentists agree, though, that the most important thing is that you floss in the first place.
  2. If your gums bleed when you floss, you may be flossing improperly or at irregular intervals. Flossing on a regular basis with a good technique is essential.
  3. If you are not using clean floss for each tooth, you risk transferring bacteria around your mouth!
  4. Floss comes in flavors. You can find all the expected stuff – mint flavors, fruit flavors – and even bacon!
  5. If you have bridgework or wider spaces between your teeth, it may be best to use wide floss, also known as dental tape. This will give better coverage and ensure they remain cleaner and healthier.
  6. If you have closely spaced teeth, consider using waxed floss. This can be easier to slide between your teeth.
  7. Listen for the squeaking sound. You can hear when unwaxed floss is moving against clean teeth. This tells you that plaque has been removed.
  8. According to the American Dental Association, only about 50% of Americans floss daily, and 18% don’t floss at ALL.
  9. 27 percent of people LIE about how often they floss!
  10. If using floss feels weird to you, ask your Barnegat dental hygienist about other options. There are products that can provide the same sort of cleaning, including rubber-tips cleaners, pre-threaded flossers, tiny brushes, and more.

If you want to learn more about the importance of flossing, good flossing techniques, and how we can help, reach out to us at 609-698-1155 to set up an appointment with our hygienist, or contact us on Facebook.

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5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Skip Your Checkup

Posted on: March 27th, 2024 by admin

It’s easy to put off a dentist appointment, especially if you’re feeling healthy. But did you know that skipping your checkup could actually lead to bigger problems down the road? Here are 5 reasons why it’s important to see your dentist near Manahawkin on a regular basis:

1. Prevention

Visiting the dentist regularly is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Regular checkups can help catch any issues early, allowing your dentist to provide quick treatment before they become more serious.

2. Early Detection

Seeing your dentist every six months gives them the opportunity to detect signs of oral cancer, an often fatal but treatable condition that’s usually found in its early stages through regular dental exams.

3. Healthy Teeth & Gums

Regular cleanings remove tartar buildup and unhealthy bacteria from teeth and gums that can lead to cavities and gum disease—so if you want a healthy smile, don’t skip your checkup!

4. Save Money

Treating an issue when it’s minor often costs much less than waiting until it becomes more severe. Your dentist can help you address smaller problems before they become expensive to repair.

5. Overall Health

Oral health is closely linked to overall health, so regularly visiting your dentist helps keep your whole body healthy. Research suggests that oral health can even be a predictor of some serious conditions like heart disease and stroke.

Seeing your dentist near Manahawkin twice a year is an important part of maintaining good oral health—so don’t skip out on this important checkup! Schedule an appointment today and reap the benefits of a healthy mouth!

 

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The Importance of Oral Health for Senior Citizens

Posted on: March 20th, 2024 by admin

The Importance of Oral Health for Senior Citizens

Oral health is an essential aspect of overall health, especially for senior citizens near Barnegat. It is common for older adults to experience various dental problems, such as gum diseases, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Poor oral health can lead to various complications such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. To maintain good oral health, it is important for seniors to practice proper oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of good oral health, the complications that can occur from poor oral health, and how to take better care of your oral health as you age.

The benefits of good oral health for senior citizens are enormous. Firstly, it helps in maintaining a healthy body weight. Seniors with a healthy mouth can eat nutritious foods, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body. Secondly, good oral health can improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that seniors with poor oral health are more likely to suffer from memory loss and cognitive decline. Thirdly, seniors with healthy teeth and gums can enjoy a better quality of life. They can chew food properly, smile confidently, and speak clearly. All of these factors contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

On the other hand, the complications that can arise from poor oral health are severe. Seniors with poor oral hygiene are more likely to develop gum diseases, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Gum diseases, if left untreated, can cause tooth loss and even bone loss. Oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that can spread elsewhere in the body if not detected early enough. Poor oral health can also lead to heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that causes gum disease can travel through the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body.

To take better care of your oral health as you age, you should do the following. Firstly, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Secondly, floss your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Thirdly, drink water with fluoride. This helps to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Fourthly, quit smoking if you smoke. Smoking is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. Lastly, visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can detect oral health problems early on and provide the necessary treatment.

In conclusion, maintaining good oral health is essential for senior citizens in Ocean County. It can improve their overall health and quality of life. Proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly can prevent and detect oral health problems. Complications from poor oral health can cause various health problems such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. Therefore, seniors should take good care of their oral health and seek professional help whenever necessary.

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